What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
parodying
Example
The comedian did a hilarious parody of the popular song. [parody: noun]
Example
The show is known for its clever parodies of famous movies and TV shows. [parodies: plural noun]
mimicking
Example
The actor was great at mimicking the president's voice and gestures. [mimicking: present participle]
Example
The bird was mimicking the sound of a car alarm. [mimicking: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mimicking is more commonly used than parodying in everyday language. Mimicking is a versatile word that can be used in a variety of contexts, while parodying is less common and is typically associated with humor or satire.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between parodying and mimicking?
Both parodying and mimicking can be used in formal or informal contexts, depending on the situation and audience. However, parodying may be seen as more informal or humorous, while mimicking can be used in a wider range of contexts, including education and science.